A Closer Look at the Opossum

An opossum in Baton Rouge LA - Dugas Pest ControlLouisiana is home to all sorts of wildlife and pests, but the opossum is one the most unique of the bunch. As the only living species of marsupial in North America, the opossum is in a class of its own, although it is commonly grouped in with rodents due to its appearance. While they don’t pose many dangerous health risks to humans, they can be frightening, filthy, and possibly disease-ridden. To learn more about opossums and how you can keep them off of your property in Baton Rouge, read up on the Dugas Pest Control technicians’ advice!

What Do Opossums Look Like?

Opossums largely resemble rats. They have gray bodies with white, slender faces and long, rat-like tails. They will grow to be about the size of a house cat in most cases, reaching up to about seven pounds.

There are several other habits that can help you identify opossums in your yard:

  1. Opossum mothers carry their young on their backs. If opossums are nesting in your yard, you might soon see upwards of ten young. They are capable of having three litters a year, too!
  2. When approached, opossums are known to play dead as a defense mechanism. Never approach one with intent to remove it, as it may resort to quickly biting.
  3. Opossums mainly eat grains, fruits, and insects. If you have lots of fruit trees or bugs in your yard, you are sure to attract opossums.

Are Opossums Dangerous?

Fortunately, opossums aren’t usually dangerous. They are timid creatures that only attack in situations where they feel extremely threatened. However, they have the ability to spread disease and filth in some cases. Here’s how you can prevent them from nesting on your property:

  • Seal any entry points to your shed, attic, crawlspaces, and more.
  • Declutter your yard by promptly removing any yard waste.
  • Use trash cans with tight-fitting lids to prevent them from digging through your garbage for food.
  • Call a wildlife pest control expert for professional prevention or removal services.

Wildlife Control in Baton Rouge LA

If you’re already dealing with opossums on your property, it’s safe to not try to remove them by yourself. You can rely on your local wildlife removal experts to get the job done. Our wildlife specialists at Dugas Pest Control have years of experience dealing with the specific pest problems that we face in our climate. For a free quote or more information on our services, contact us today!

Why Do Rodents Chew Wires?

A rat seen in Baton Rouge LA - Dugas Pest ControlOne of the most dreaded parts of a pest infestation is the potential for property damage. Rodents are some of the worst offenders in the world of destructive pests. Not only do they spread filth and disease, they can cause expensive and even dangerous property damage when they decide to take up residence on your property. If you’ve noticed that electrical wiring has been chewed or torn in your home or car, you’re dealing with rodents, and they have to be dealt with quickly. Learn how with Dugas Pest Control!

Why Do Rodents in Baton Rouge LA Chew Wires?

Rats and mice are infamous for being hard to detect before a full-blown infestation has developed. When fall comes around, rodents prepare for winter by finding a place to nest and hide out from the cold. Apparently, it’s not enough that we give them places to live—they insist on tearing up our homes from the inside out, too!

Rodents of all kinds have a pair of upper and lower teeth called incisors that never stop growing. This means that they have to be worn down constantly to stop them from growing up into their brain. Rats and mice remedy this problem by grinding their teeth together or chewing on anything that they can find, which can be anything from support beams to electrical wiring when they are living in our homes. Finding damaged electrical wires is a common sign of a rodent infestation.

Why Are Rodent Infestations Dangerous?

When rats or mice chew through the wires in your car or home, they tear through the protective coating, causing the metal to become exposed. A spark in the cable can then directly lead to a fire, especially when surrounded by the wooden structures in your home.

When fall comes around, it’s important to take preventative measures to keep rats and mice out of your home. Make sure to do the following before fall sets in:

  1. Look for holes in your foundation, walls, or roof, and seal them promptly
  2. Set up baits or traps around your home to keep rodents outside
  3. Store and seal food properly and securely fasten your trash cans
  4. Get help from your local pest control company

Ready to Get Rid of Rodents in Your Home?

If you think it’s too early to start pest-prepping your home in Baton Rouge LA for winter, think again. Many rodents are preparing for the winter as well—by finding a cozy space to live on your property! If you want to avoid a mouse or rat infestation this fall, ask the rodent removal specialists at Dugas Pest Control about how they can help. Our mouse and rat extermination processes involve inspection, removal tactics, and follow-ups with tips to help you prevent future outbreaks. Contact us today for a free quote!